Conference Team
Simon Wood
Conference Chair / Treasurer
Simon joined Rotary in 2007 through Exmouth Rotary Club, where he developed a strong interest in youth activities, particularly the Youth Speaks competition, and played an active role in fundraising initiatives, including the successful Spiral Wishing Wells project.
He served as Club President in 2015–16 and later as District Governor during the challenging COVID year of 2019–20. During this period, Simon encouraged clubs to adapt, stay connected, and continue supporting their communities, guided by his vision of making Rotary more open, accessible, and visible.
Following the pandemic, Simon was appointed District Foundation Chair by Rotary International and, in 2025, was asked to lead the District’s Membership drive.
Before retiring to Devon, Simon worked in the international shipping industry in the UK and the USA. He is married to Jane and has four grandchildren.
Sarah Jane Dingley
Conference Coordination Lead
Sarah Jane Dingley brings extensive experience in senior administrative and hospitality management roles, with a strong focus on organisation, logistics, and operational delivery. Her background includes senior secretarial and personal assistant positions, followed by progression into hotel management after relocating to Cornwall.
She has held senior front-of-house and Assistant Manager roles, contributing to high standards of service delivery, including involvement in a hotel achieving an AA Five Star rating. Known for her methodical and dependable approach, she supports the effective coordination and smooth running of District Conference activity.
Sam Cross
Conference Programme Lead
Sam Cross is the District Governor for Rotary District 1175, serving the South West Peninsula. She brings extensive experience in leadership, public health, project management, marketing, and public engagement, gained across the NHS, local government, charities, and the voluntary sector.
A Registered General Nurse with postgraduate qualifications in public health and health psychology, Sam has led complex programmes and multidisciplinary teams, delivering impactful health, community, and public-facing initiatives. As District Governor, she is focused on strengthening clubs, increasing community impact, and promoting collaborative, people-centred leadership, with a strong emphasis on effective communication and storytelling.
Mike Leech
Webmaster
Mike is responsible for building and marketing the conference website. He is the CEO and Director of our principal sponsor, CIG, an international investment group.
With a background in web design and digital marketing within the financial sector, Mike brings extensive experience in creating user-focused digital platforms and delivering marketing strategies that drive engagement and growth. His work sits at the intersection of design, technology, and commercial impact.
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Our Event Sponsors
The 2026 Rotary District Conference is proudly sponsored by our corporate partners.
This years Rotary District 1175 Conference at the Crowne Plaza in Plymouth is hosted by
